ADAPTING TO LOCAL BUSINESS CULTURE
Japan is a well-structured and traditional society. There are many cultural differences between Japan and the United States. These cultural differences tie into the business world. 98.5% of Japan’s population consists of ethnic Japanese citizens (JETRO, 2015). Therefore, it is important to understand these cultural differences to attract and satisfy customers.
Greetings
It is natural in the Japanese culture to bow as a form of greeting. Bowing is highly appreciated and is used to show respect. Apologizing and thanking can also be communicated through bowing. Japanese citizens understand that foreigners typically shake hands, so a handshake is equally respected (Window On The World, 2014).
Business
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The first meetings with a new group of employees or within a new company typically focus on building relationships and establishing a friendly atmosphere. Meetings will occur to discuss any issues that need to be addressed or if the business is undergoing negative situations. Meetings will also occur to discuss the positives and to show appreciation.
EMPLOYMENT IN NEW LOCATION
Coon’s Candy must hire quality employees to aid in the manufacturing and selling of the candy. Also, a Country Manager will be necessary to oversee the branch. It is important to analyze and understand Human Resource operations in Japan and determine the qualifications that will need to be met in order to benefit the business.
Recruitment
With being in an entirely new country, finding individuals willing to work for a new, foreign small business branch may be an issue. To assist with finding employment, Coon’s Candy can team up with a government-run employment agency known as “Hello Work”. This agency offers free support for individuals seeking work and companies seeking workers within all regions of Japan. This will be an efficient starting point to attract recruits.
Qualifications for successful candidates:
• Cooperate well with others
• Customer-focused
• Capable of multitasking
• Able to adapt quickly in a fast-paced
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CONCLUSIONS
Analysis of Japanese business culture, Japanese Human Resource regulations and operations, demand for specific goods in the Japanese market, failed U.S. businesses, and current competing businesses leads to the following conclusions on opening a foreign candy retail branch in the city of Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan:
1. It is important to understand the surrounding culture. Specifically in Japanese business; proper business etiquette, group-work, and collaboration are the most key aspects to focus on.
2. The Japanese regulations on wages, labor contracts, and working hours must be understood and applied appropriately.
3. The government-run employment agency, “Hello Work”, will be useful in finding Japanese candidates that meet job qualifications.
4. Coon’s Candy major local competitor will be Papabubble.
5. The top five most popular Japanese candies are as followed: Kit-Kats, Hi-Chew Fruit Chews, Guava Hard Candy, Mixed Soda Candy, Apollo Strawberry Chocolate Candy
6. Coon’s Candy will offer four sizing options with the following prices: 30 Gram bag (¥390), 60 Gram bag (¥720), 200 Gram jar (¥1,860), 400 Gram jar